Functional reach assessment device and method

ABSTRACT

A device that enables an assessment or a management of a medical condition in a patient, includes a base member comprising a pair of surface spaced apart from each other to define a thickness of the base member. The base member can be provided as an elongated base member. Markings are disposed on one surface from the pair of surfaces of the elongated base member along a length of the elongated base member. An array of targets is provided with targets being disposed, during use of the device, below a bottom edge of the elongated base member. Coupling members are also provided with each coupling member coupling a respective target from the array of targets to the elongated base member for a reciprocal linear movement along the length of the elongated base member. The device can be affixed to a structure or provided as a mobile device.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority from and a benefit of aprovisional U.S. patent application No. 62/413,516, titled “FUNCTIONALREACH ASSESSMENT DEVICE AND METHOD” and filed on Oct. 27, 2016 byInventor Norman L. Johnson. The foregoing reference is herebyincorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT

N/A

REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING, A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER PROGRAM LISTINGCOMPACT DISC APPENDIX

N/A

BACKGROUND

1. Technical Field

The subject matter relates to assessment or management of a medicalcondition or an impairment. It further relates to devices and methodsfor assessing functional reach of a patient by a medical practitioner.

2. Description of Related Art

The following background information may present examples of specificaspects of the prior art (e.g., without limitation, approaches, facts,or common wisdom) that, while expected to be helpful to further educatethe reader as to additional aspects of the prior art, is not to beconstrued as limiting the present invention, or any embodiments thereof,to anything stated or implied therein or inferred thereupon.

An assessment of balance exhibited by a patient can be achieved throughfunctional reach assessment in which the patient generally stands erectand stretches out one or both arms. Patient can be also seated. Patientcan be also supported by a health care practitioner by way of a harness.The reach is assessed with a numerical value. Generally, a reachmeasuring 6 inches or less suggests a predisposition to falling.

Lumbar range of motion is typically measured by a medical practitionerwith a goniometer, inclinometer, tape measure or other means. Themeasuring device is held in place with a strap, tape or manually by themedical practitioner. Each technique requires varying amounts of timefor the medical practitioner to properly locate the specific anatomicalplacement site, place the measuring device and perform the measurement.The measurements are limited in a linear direction and correspondingplane for the motion assessed. The reliability of the medicalpractitioner range of motion values is related to consistent adherenceto proper measuring device specific anatomical positioning.

The limitation encountered with the functional reach test with thepatient standing stationary in an erect (orthograde) position is thatthe test is biased in that the majority of daily functional activitiesthat require reaching are not performed with the shoulder positioned at90° of flexion (Anterior-Posterior or Sagittal plane, Lateral axis) orabduction (Frontal or Lateral plane, Anterior-Posterior axis).

Furthermore, a potential of the functional reach assessment test has notbeen explored for use in the assessment and treatment of a low backimpairment.

Accordingly, there is at least a need to improve the method of thefunctional reach assessment.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings are incorporated in and constitute part of thespecification and illustrate various embodiments. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 illustrates an elevation view of an exemplary device that enablesor assists in an assessment or a management of a medical condition in apatient;

FIGS. 2A-2G illustrate exemplary cross-sectional views of the device ofFIG. 1 along lines II-II;

FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate elevation views of examples of attaching thedevice of FIG. 1 to a vertical surface or structure;

FIG. 4 illustrates an elevation view of an exemplary device that enablesan assessment or a management of a medical condition in a patient;

FIG. 5 illustrates an elevation view of an exemplary device that enablesan assessment or a management of a medical condition in a patient beingseated;

FIG. 6 illustrates an elevation view of the exemplary device of FIG. 5with the patient leaning forward;

FIG. 7 illustrates an elevation view of the device of FIGS. 4-6 adaptedwith a scissor mechanism;

FIG. 8 illustrates an elevation view of the device of FIG. 7 being in anintermediate position;

FIG. 9 illustrates an elevation view of the device of FIG. 7 being inone terminal position;

FIG. 10 illustrates an elevation view of an exemplary device thatenables or assists in an assessment or a management of a medicalcondition in a patient;

FIG. 11 illustrates a 3D view of an exemplary device that enables orassists in an assessment or a management of a medical condition in apatient;

FIG. 12 illustrates use of a harness and a resistance member in acombination with the device of FIG. 4 or FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 illustrates an elevation view of an exemplary method forassessing or managing of a medical condition in a patient; and

FIG. 14 illustrates an elevation view of an exemplary method forassessing or managing of a medical condition in a patient.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

Prior to proceeding to the more detailed description of the presentinvention, it should be noted that, for the sake of clarity andunderstanding, identical components which have identical functions havebeen identified with identical reference numerals throughout the severalviews illustrated in the drawing figures.

The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and isnot intended to limit the described examples or the application and usesof the described examples. As may be used herein, the words “example”,“exemplary” or “illustrative” means “serving as an example, instance, orillustration.” Any implementation described herein as “example”,“exemplary” or “illustrative” is not necessarily to be construed aspreferred or advantageous over other implementations. All of theimplementations described below are exemplary implementations providedto enable persons skilled in the art to make or use the embodiments ofthe disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of thedisclosure.

References in the specification to “an embodiment”, “an exemplaryembodiment”, an “example” and similar phrases mean that a particularfeature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with theembodiment or variation, is included in at least an embodiment orvariation of the invention. The phrase “in an embodiment” or similarphrases, as may be used in various places in the specification, are notnecessarily meant to refer to the same embodiment or the same variation.

For purposes of description herein, the directional and/or relationaryterms such as “upper”, “top”, “lower”, “bottom”, “left”, “right”,“rear”, “back”, “front”, “apex”, “vertical”, “horizontal”, “lateral”,“exterior”, “interior” and derivatives thereof are relative to eachother and are dependent on the specific orientation of an applicableelement or article, and are used accordingly to aid in the descriptionof the various embodiments and are not necessarily intended to beconstrued as limiting. It will be understood that the spatially relativeterms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device inuse or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures.For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elementsdescribed as “below” or “beneath” other elements or features would thenbe oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplaryterm “below” can encompass both an orientation of above and below. Thedevice may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at otherorientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used hereininterpreted accordingly.

Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by any expressed orimplied theory presented in the preceding technical field, background,or the following detailed description. It is also to be understood thatthe specific devices and processes illustrated in the coupled drawings,and described in the following specification, are simply examples of theinventive concepts. Hence, specific dimensions and other physicalcharacteristics relating to the examples disclosed herein are not to beconsidered as limiting.

The term “or” when used in this specification is not meant to beexclusive; rather the term is inclusive, meaning either or both.

The term “couple” or “coupled”, when used in this specification, refersto an indirect or direct physical connection between the identifiedelements, components, or objects. Often the manner of the coupling willbe related specifically to the manner in which the two coupled elementsinteract.

The term “directly coupled” or “coupled directly,” when used in thisspecification, refers to a physical connection between identifiedelements, components, or objects, in which no other element, component,or object resides between those identified as being directly coupled.

The term “generally horizontal(ly)” or “generally vertical(ly)” shouldbe also understood to mean respectively horizontally or verticallydisposed element or surface but the term does not exclude thepossibility of orienting such feature or surface at a small anglerelative to respectively absolute horizontal or vertical plane or line.

The terms “removable”, “removably coupled”, “removably disposed,”“readily removable”, “readily detachable”, “detachably coupled”,“separable,” “separably coupled,” and similar terms, when used in thisspecification, refer to structures that can be uncoupled, detached,uninstalled, or removed from an adjoining structure with relative ease(i.e., non-destructively, and without a complicated or time-consumingprocess), and that can also be readily reinstalled, recoupled, orcoupled to the previously adjoining structure.

As may be used herein, the terms “adapted” and “configured” mean thatthe element, component, or other subject matter is designed and/orintended to perform a given function. Thus, the use of the terms“adapted” and “configured” should not be construed to mean that a givenelement, component, or other subject matter is simply “capable of”performing a given function but that the element, component, and/orother subject matter is specifically selected, created, implemented,utilized, programmed, and/or designed for the purpose of performing thefunction. It is also within the scope of the present disclosure thatelements, components, and/or other recited subject matter that isrecited as being adapted to perform a particular function mayadditionally or alternatively be described as being configured toperform that function, and vice versa. Similarly, subject matter that isrecited as being configured to perform a particular function mayadditionally or alternatively be described as being operative to performthat function.

Anywhere the term “comprising” is used, embodiments and components“consisting essentially of” and “consisting of” are expressly disclosedand described herein.

The terms and words used in the following description are not limited tothe bibliographical meanings, but, are merely used by the inventor toenable a clear and consistent understanding of the invention.Accordingly, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that thefollowing description of exemplary embodiments is provided forillustration purpose only and not for the purpose of limiting thesubject matter and their equivalents.

It is to be understood that the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the”include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.Thus, for example, reference to “a component surface” includes referenceto one or more of such surfaces.

The particular embodiments of the present disclosure generally providedevice and method directed assessment or a management of a medicalcondition or an impairment.

The particular embodiments of the present disclosure generally providedevice and method directed to functional reach assessment.

The functional reach assessment device, may be hereinafter referred toin this document as “device”.

In an embodiment, the device is a physical device being configured sothat the patient has to reach, with his arm extended, and at least touchif not grasp an object that is configured for a movement in a lineardirection. The object is mounted for movement so that the object can bepositioned at a desired distance. Alternatively, the patient can movethe object. In either approach, a measured numerical value (betweenstarting and ending positions) of the reach or the object movementenables assessment of the patient's mobility or a medical impairment.

Now in reference to FIGS. 1-3C, an exemplary embodiment of such physicaldevice 10 comprises a base member 20, one or more targets 40, markings60 and coupling members 41. The base member 20 is generally provided asan elongated base member 20, meaning that a length of the base member 20is greater than a width thereof. The elongated base member 20 comprisesa first or front surface 22 and a second or rear surface 24 spaced apartfrom the first surface 22 to define a thickness of the base member 20.The base member 20 also comprises a top edge 27 and a bottom edge 29,both running along the length of the base member 20. It is not necessaryfor the surfaces 22 and 24 to be planar surfaces, as illustrated. Nor itis necessary for the surfaces 22 and 24 to be continuous surfaces andvoids or protrusions are also contemplated. For example, one or bothsurfaces 22 and 24 can be adapted with reinforcing ribs (not shown).

Markings 60 are disposed, in a series with each other along the lengthof the base member 20, on the front surface 22 of the base member 20.The front surface 22 is disposed to face a patient 2 during use of thedevice 10. However, markings 60 can be optionally disposed on anopposite rear surface 24 or even on both surfaces 22 and 24. Themarkings 60 comprise a series of numbers either in English or Metricmeasurement system or both. Essentially, markings 60 define a rulerconfiguration of the base member 20. The markings 60 may be for examplelines, spaced apart from each other to qualitatively assess the reachbased on predefined standards. One of such markings 60 can be selectedduring use of the device 10 to define a starting position. Additionalmarkings 60 are being positioned relative to the starting position todefine a range of movement or a stability index. Two sets of markings 60can be provided for both a left-hand and a right-hand use of the device10, each set starting at a respective end of the base member 20. Whentwo sets of markings 60 are provided, the elongated member 20 can beadapted with a hinge 69 so that the base member 20 can be folded forstorage or transport purposes. In an example, the hinge 69 can be aconventional hinge where the base member 20 is provided as a pair ofindividual (half) members 21 and each half of the hinge 69 is attachedto a respective individual member 21 either by fastening or adhesives.In an example, the hinge 69 can comprise a portion of the base member 20having a reduced thickness so that the hinge 69 comprises a livinghinge. It is further contemplated that the base member 20 can beprovided as the pair of half members 21 even when the hinge 69 is notused, with each half member being individually mounted so as to definesuch base member 20. In other words, it is not necessary for the basemember 20 to be a continuous a single piece member.

The markings 60 can comprise both numbers and lines. The device 10 canbe used in applications where it is not necessary to measure exactlength of the reach. The markings 60 can be disposed on the frontsurface 22, for example being applied by a paint, or embedded into thethickness of the base member 20, or both embedded into the thickness andpainted or provided as a decal. When markings 60 are provided as a decal61, the decal 61 can be detachably or permanently attached to the frontsurface 22, for example with an adhesive or by way of an electrostaticcharge. Each marking 60 can be provided as an individual decal.

The target 40 can be provided in any shape. The target 40 can beprovided as a ball-shaped or spherical member. The target 40 can be ahollow or solid.

The coupling member (or coupling connection) 41 comprises a mountingportion 42 configured to cage a portion of the base member 20. Themounting portion 42 is coupled to the base member 20 so as to at leastprevent if not completely eliminate unintended disengagement of thetarget 40 from the base member 20. The mounting portion 42 can be a clipconfigured to cage the thickness of the base member 20.

The coupling member 41 also comprise a member 46 that connects a singletarget 40 with its respective mounting portion 42. The member 46 can beprovided in any shape. The member 46 can be any one of a flexiblemember, a rigid member and a combination thereof.

Each target 40 can be configured to move, in a linear reciprocal motion,along the length of the base member 20 when the patient is required toreach, grasp a selected target or targets 40 or even pull or push theselected target or targets 40 along the length of the base member 20.When the target 40 is configured to move, the device 10 comprisescoupling members 41, each coupling member 41 couples a respective target40 to the base member 20 for a reciprocal linear movement along a lengthof the base member 40.

Movable coupling between the target 40 and the base member 20 can beillustrated by examples of FIGS. 2A-3G. In the embodiment of FIGS.2A-2G, the base member 20 may define an elongated rail with each target40 being configured and mounted on the rail 20 for a reciprocal linearmovement thereon in a manner so as to prevent unintended disengagementfrom the rail 20. Furthermore, the rail 20 can be also adapted with aguide or a guide portion 30 that can protrude or extend from the basemember 20.

In an example of FIG. 2A, the guide 30 can comprise a notch 26 in thefront surface 22 that runs along the length of the base member 20 andthat defines a reduced thickness portion 28 of the base member 20, thereduced thickness portion 28 containing the top edge 27. It is alsocontemplated that another notch 26 can be provided in the front surface22 along the bottom edge 29. It is also contemplated that the notch ornotches 28 can be provided in the rear surface 24. The mounting portion42 may be then configured as a J-shaped member 42A to partially cage orpartially envelope the thickness portion 28 defined by such notch 26with a flange 42B of such mounting portion 42 being disposed in thenotch 26. In an example of FIG. 2B, the guide 30 comprises a generallycylindrical member 30B that is connected to the base member 20 with aneck 30B′. The mounting portion 42B can be then adapted with acomplimentary C-shaped cross-section in a plane normal to the length ofthe base member 20.

In an example of FIG. 2C, the guide 30 comprises an L-shaped flange 30C.The mounting portion 42C can be then adapted with a J-shapedcross-section in a plane normal to the length of the base member 20.

In an example of FIG. 2D, the guide 30 comprises a flange 30D defines bya pair of inclined surfaces. The mounting portion 42D is adapted with acomplimentary mating flanges 42D′ and 42D″.

In an example of FIG. 2E, the guide 30 essentially comprises acylindrical member 30E with the mounting portion 42E of the target 40 isadapted with a complimentary shape, which is illustrated as a C-shape ina plane normal to a length of the base member 20. The cylindrical member30E does not have to be solid and can be provided as a tubular memberwith a hollow interior.

In an example of FIG. 2F, the guide 30 comprises a flange 30F thatdefines a T-shaped cross-section of the base member 20 in a plane normalto a length thereof. The mounting portion 42F can be then adapted with apair of flanges 42F′ and a pair of inturned flanges 42F″ so as to cagesuch flange 30E.

In an example of FIG. 2G, the guide 30 comprises a flange 30G thatdefines an L-shaped cross-section of the base member 20 in a planenormal to a length thereof. The mounting portion 42G can be thenconfigured as having a U-shaped or a J-shaped cross-section in the planenormal to the length of the base member 20.

It would be understood that the examples of FIGS. 2A-2G provide meansfor moving the target(s) 40 along or on a base member 20.

During use, the device 10 can be provided as a stationary device, beingeither permanently or detachably mounted or can be provided as a mobiledevice for ease of transport or positioning at a desired location.Accordingly, the device 10 comprises a means for mounting (supporting)the base member 20 with the targets 40 either in a stationary manner orin a mobile (movable) manner at an elevation above a surface that apatient stands on during the use of the device 10. In either condition,the base member 20 is mounted generally horizontally so that the targets30 are being suspended in a vertical direction.

In an embodiment, the base member 20 may be secured, either detachablyor permanently to a vertical surface 4. Such vertical surface can bepart of a wall in an examination room or office. In an example of FIG.3A, the base member 20 can be directly and securely coupled to thesurface 4 with conventional fastener(s) 66 passed through aperture(s) 65within the thickness of the base member 20. In an example of FIG. 3B,the base member 20 can be coupled to the surface 4 with an adhesive 67.In an example of FIG. 3C, the base member 20 may be attached with a hookand loop fastener 68 positioned on the rear surface 24. In an example,the base member 20 can be suspended either from a vertical or ahorizontal surface. The adhesive 67 and the hook and loop fastener 68can be provided as a single continuous member or two or more segmentsspaced apart with each other along the length of the base member 20.Thus, the examples of FIGS. 3A-3C provide a means for attaching the basemember 20 or the device 10 to a vertical surface or structure.

In an embodiment, the base member 20 can be supported, in a stationarymanner, by a support 70.

Now in a reference to FIGS. 4-12, the device 10 is provided as a mobiledevice. In this embodiment, the base member 20 can be mounted at or neara top end 73 of a vertical support member 72. The vertical supportmember 72 can be provided as a fixed length member or can be providedwith one or more adjustable portion 72A, 72B as an adjustable lengthmember of a telescopic type, for example fitted with height lockingcollars 74. Furthermore, the vertical support member 72, provided insections, may have one or more sections, such as sections 72A and/or 72Badapted with markings 77 defining a ruler 75. The ruler 75 expeditespositioning of the base member 20 in a vertical direction. Although suchposition is generally at a shoulder level of the patient 2, it can behigher or lower to introduce additional effort of reaching or loungingat an incline rather than in a straight line and even bending at thewaist line. Although the vertical support member 72 has been shownherein as comprising three sections, more or less sections arecontemplated herewithin. The vertical support member 72 with the basemember 20 and ball-shaped (or other shaped) targets 40 can be configuredto upstand on a wheeled base 76 with wheels 78. The wheeled base 76 canbe also provided as a tripod. It is to be understood that the targets 40are configured as a linear array on the elongated base member 20.

In either of the above described embodiments, the targets 40 can besuspended at same or different distances from the bottom edge 29 of thebase member 20 and, consequently, at same or different heights from asurface 6 that the patient 2 is standing or sitting on. In thisembodiment, the patient 2 will generally stand or sit at one end of thebase member 20 and face the vertical support member 72. Duringassessment, the patient 2 will reach toward the vertical support member72. The end of the base member 20 that the patient 2 will stand or sitat is determined based on the hand that the patient 2 will reach with.Generally, the patient 2 will stand or sit so that his/her arm is inclose proximity to the base member 20. In other words, if the patient 2will reach with his/her left arm, the patient 2 will stand or sit at theleft of FIG. 4. If the patient 2 will reach with his/her right arm, thepatient 2 will stand or sit at the right of FIG. 4.

In an example of FIGS. 5-6, the device 10 can be provided without thesuspended targets 40.

The limitation encountered with the functional reach test with thepatient 2 standing stationary in an erect (orthograde) position is thatthe test is biased in that the majority of daily functional activitiesthat require reaching are not performed with the shoulder positioned at90° of flexion (Anterior-Posterior or Sagittal plane, Lateral axis) orabduction (Frontal or Lateral plane, Anterior-Posterior axis). Thedisclosed embodiments for the functional reach test device 10 canmeasure forward, backward and lateral arm movement distance which can berecorded when the patient 2 needs to take a step to maintain standingbalance.

The incorporation of a target or targets 40 at various heights anddistances requires the patient 2 to maintain standing or seated (ifperformed in a sitting position) balance while using visual tracking toreach or lunge toward the targets 40 while being instructed, monitoredand/or supervised by a medical professional. In other words, the device10 is designed to assess a medical condition of the patient 2 in amanner where the patient 2 does not change the initial position of thefeet and waist line. However, stepping action by the patient 2 is alsocontemplated, particularly when the patient 2 is standing.

In an embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 7-9, the base member 20 can beconfigured or provided as a pair of half portions 21 that could beidentical with each other, except for a direction of markings 60. In afurther reference to FIGS. 7-9, there is also illustrated a scissor-typemechanism 80 that has portions thereof being rigidly secured to each ofthe half portions 21. The scissor-type mechanism 80 is configured tomove both half portions 21 between an operable first position in FIG. 7,wherein the base member 20 is disposed generally horizontally and afolding second position in FIG. 9, wherein the half portions 21 areeither disposed generally parallel to the vertical support member 72 orat some incline to the vertical support member 72. As it can be seen inFIG. 8, the half portions 21 can be maintained in an intermediateposition anywhere between the first and second positions. In thisexample, the device 10 can also comprise a mounting member 82 alsohaving scissor-type mechanism 80 being attached to. Thus, the method offunctional reach assessment may also comprise providing the base member20 in two half portions 21 and moving the half portions 21 between anoperable and folded positions. The scissor-type mechanism 80 may bereplaced with the above described hinge 69 adapted with a lockingfeature. FIGS. 7-9 also illustrate that the device 10 can be simplypositioned next to a movable privacy partition or a screen thatseparates different examination areas within the same examination room.Thus the mobile device 10 is configured so as to not require any rigidand/or stationary structures.

In an example of FIG. 10, the base member 20 may be provided as a singlehalf portion 21. Such single half portion 21 may be mounted in astationary position or configured for a rotating movement. When the halfportion 21 is configured to rotate, the single half portion 21 can haveone end thereof attached to a housing 86 that is adapted with a pivot88. The housing 86 or the pivot 88 can be attached to a structure. Thestructure can be a stationary surface, such as the wall surface 4, orthe above described vertical support member 72.

In an example, the base member 20 may be mounted, on a stand, forexample such as a tri-pod.

In an example, the base member 20 may be mounted to a post 206 of apatient analysis system 200 described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,526,071 issuedto Drapeau on Apr. 8, 2009 and whose relative teachings are incorporatedby reference herein.

In an example, the base member 20 may be configured to attach onto avertical sliding rail of Exercise Wall Station as sold under theTheraBand® brand. The base member 20 will be then configured/adapted fora linear reciprocal motion in a vertical direction. In other words, thedevice 10 can be configured as an accessory for the Exercise WallStation as sold under the TheraBand® brand. Furthermore, the abovedescribed vertical support member 72 can be configured as a freestandingsliding rail and the base member 20 may be similarly configured so thatthe base member 20 moves (slides) linearly along a length of thevertical support member 72.

In an embodiment, the markings 60 can be provided as two sets ofnumerals, each having a lower number at one free end of the base member20 and converging toward the middle of the base member 20.

Such two sets of numerals are advantageous in that both Metric and/orEnglish System the measurement may be obtained. Both measurement systemscan be used, for example each measurement being disposed close to onelongitudinal edge of the base member 20, since Metric measurement isroutinely used in all countries except the United States, Liberia andMyanmar. With this inclusion of both sets of measurements, thefunctional reach device may be used globally. Additionally, traditionalmeasurement scale devices run the numbers in a left to right direction.Thus, when functional reach activities are performed on the right sideof the measurement scale going to the left, the lower number obtainedmust be subtracted by the high number starting point. With themeasurement scale running from left to right and right to leftdirections, the distance of the functional reach movement is immediatelyavailable which eliminates the need for subtraction whereby reducingpotential calculation errors. Also, a reach indicator on the device iseasily advanced to the position on the unit arm to accurately measureand record the reach distance moved. Another advantage is theincorporation of numbers to measure the vertical starting height of thefunctional reach device. The ability to record this informationincreases the reliability of future patient 2 assessment.

To perform functional reach assessment in the embodiments of FIGS. 1-4,the patient 2 can stand normal to the base member 20 with the fistedhand 3 extending along the length of the base member 20. The medicalpractitioner 8 may move one target 40 to touch the first of the patient2 and record the corresponding marking 60 as a starting marking orposition. In other words, it is not necessary that the first ispositioned at a zero mark. The patient 2 then leans forward with thefisted hand 3 extended into the position 2′ and attempts to or reachestoward one or more targets 40 depending on a length of the reach. Thepatient can touch and even grasp the target 40. When the member 46 is arigid member, the patient 2 can grasp the target 40 in the startingposition and move the target 40 by way of its mounting portion 42 alongthe length of the base member 20 into a position denoted by 2′, untilthe patient 2 cannot reach any longer. The medical practitioner 8 thenrecords the corresponding marking 60 and calculates an actual reach as adimensional difference between the starting and ending markings 60. Itis not necessary that the patient 2 touches the target 40 and theassessment or management can be carried out by a relative position ofthe fisted hand 3 next to a specific target 40.

To perform functional reach assessment in the embodiments of FIGS. 5-6,the patient 2 sits, for example in a wheelchair 100, with the fistedhand 3 extended along the length of the base member 20. The medicalpractitioner 8 records the corresponding marking 60 as a startingmarking or position. In other words, it is not necessary that the firstis positioned at a zero mark. The patient 2 then leans forward, as isbest shown in FIG. 6, with the fisted hand 3 extended into the position2′ and reaches until the patient 2 cannot reach any longer. The medicalpractitioner 8 then records the corresponding marking 60 as the endingmarking or position and calculates an actual reach as a dimensionaldifference between the starting and ending markings 60. It would beunderstood that FIGS. 5-6 illustrate an embodiment where the device 10is provided without the targets 40 and the coupling members 41. However,it is contemplated that the device 10 in the embodiments of FIGS. 5-6can be adapted with the targets 40 with the method being similar to themethod described in a reference to FIG. 4, except for the sittingposition of the patient 2. Thus, the device 10 can be used by patientswho are unable to stand or have difficulty standing during a duration ofthe assessment routine. In other words, the device 10 can be used withpatients 2 who either temporarily or permanently lost control of theirlower extremities. Although the wheelchair 100 is shown as beingoriented toward the vertical support member 72 (or to the right in FIGS.5-6.), it may be oriented away from the vertical support member 72 (orto the left in FIGS. 5-6). The method will then comprise positioning thewheelchair 100 (or any other chair) adjacent the device to carry outreaching assessment.

Now in a reference to FIG. 11, therein is illustrated a device 10′ thatenables or assists in an assessment or a management of a medicalcondition or an impairment in a patient and that comprises a base member20′, a support member 72 that couples to the base member 20′ and thatsupports the base member 20′ above a surface that the patient 2 standsor sits on during the use of the device 10′, and an array of targets 40suspended from the base member 20′, where some targets 40 from the arrayof targets 40 are being disposed at different elevations relative toremaining targets 40 from the array of targets 40. In other words, thedevice 10′ is configured to provide a three-dimensional array of targets40. It is also contemplated that the device 10′ can comprise two or moreelongated base member 20 disposed next to each other on the base member20′ or integrated into a unitary one-piece construction.

In either configuration of the device 10 or 10′, the targets 40 in thearray of targets 40 can be provided in a plurality of colors to developauditory and sensory skills.

Now in a reference to FIG. 12, the device 10 or 10′ can be also used ina combination with a harness 90 worn by the patient during use of thedevice 10 or 10′. The harness 10 can be held by the medical practitioner8 to assist patient 2 in maintaining stability and preventing a fallcondition. Furthermore, the patient 2 can be challenged with anadditional resistance during the assessment, treatment or exercise byway of a resistance inducing member 92, for example such as a spring oran exercise band. In this embodiment, the harness 90 will have aconnection with one end of the resistance inducing member 92. Suchconnection can be a hook or a carabineer. When the patient 2 is toexercise flexors, the resistance inducing member 92 will be connected tothe front of the harness 90. When the patient 2 is to exerciseextensors, the resistance inducing member 92 will be connected to theback of the harness 90. Furthermore, FIG. 12 illustrates an embodimentwhere the elongated member 20 is positioned across the torso of thepatient 2 so as to promulgate reaching with the fisted hand 3 across thetorso, while maintaining the feet in a stationary position.

In either configuration of the device 10 or 10′, one or more targets 40can be provided with a hollow interior and with an electronic circuit 50and a light emitting member 52 disposed within the hollow interior,where the light emitting member is responsive to actuation of thecircuit by a motion of the target 40 or by a patient touch to emitlight.

In either configuration of the device 10 or 10′, one or more targets 40can be provided with a hollow interior and with an electronic circuit 50and a sound emitting member 54 responsive to actuation of the circuit bya motion of the target 40 or by a patient touch to emit sound.

The device 10 or 10′ of any of the above described embodiments can beutilized for evaluation and training for medical conditions and surgerywhere a balance impairment increases the risk of falling which mayresult in additional injuries. These medical conditions include but arenot limited to: amputations, brain injury, cerebral vascular accident,diabetic neuropathy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's Disease, total kneereplacement, total hip replacement, spinal cord injury and vestibulardisorders. For patients 2 that are unable to move to the standingposition or may be wheelchair bound the device 10 of any of the abovedescribed embodiments can be adjusted to accommodate seated evaluationand training.

Muscles provide dynamic stability and control in both standing andseated positions. Neurological and/or muscular impairments may inhibitnormal trunk and/or limb body movement necessary to perform patient 2specific functional activities. Muscles providing stability of thecervical spinal area include: sternocleidomastiod, scalene, levatorscapulae, upper trapezius, erector spinae, rectus capitis anterior andlateralis and longus colli. Muscles providing stabilization of thelumbar spine area include: rectus abdominis, external and internalobliques, quadratus lumborum (lateral portion), erector spinae,iliopsoas, transversus abdominis, multifidus, quadratus lumborum (deepportion) and deep rotators.

Low back pain ranks second as a frequently treated medical problem andis only surpassed by cold and flu. An episode of back pain may causeimpairment resulting in limitations of bending and reaching movementsthat are requisites to perform functional activities. Accordingly, thedevice 10 or 10′ can be used for a non-surgical management of a low backimpairment in a patient.

In one non-limiting example, a method of a non-surgical management of alow back impairment in a patient can comprise the steps of providing adevice comprising a support member, a base member mounted on the supportmember, and a linear or a two-dimensional array of targets suspended bycoupling members from the base member, some targets from the linear ortwo-dimensional array of targets are being disposed at differentelevations relative to remaining targets from the linear ortwo-dimensional array of targets. Then, positioning the device in frontof or next to the patient or positioning the patient in front of thedevice. Reaching, by the patient having his/her arm extended, in adirection of a target or targets in the array of targets. Then,observing, by a medical practitioner, the target or targets reached ornot reached by the patient. Next, determining, by the medicalpractitioner, a degree of the low back impairment based on position ofthe target or targets reached or not reached by the patient. Then,prescribing, by the medical practitioner, based on the degree of the lowback impairment, an exercise and/or therapy regimen promulgatingimprovement in the low back impairment. In this embodiment, the deviceprovides a consistent and accurate measure of the patient conditionand/or recovery progress.

The device 10 is adaptable for the evaluation and treatment of variousmedical afflictions. One example of a method of rehabilitation comprisesthe incorporation of balance training in a patient who has sustained abrain bleed or stroke. This medical condition may leave the patient withhemiparesis or paralysis on one side of the body and visual neglect onthe affected side of the body. After completion of the functional reachassessment to identify patient deficits, the functional reach device 10can be used in either the standing or seated position to have thepatient reach in forward and lateral directions with objects at variousheights and distances. The patient 2 can perform these activities from aposition either directly in front of the functional reach device 10 orat the side of the functional reach device. The patient would performthe movement upon receiving a verbal command from the medicalprofessional. The movement incorporates both visual and balance trainingcomponents. Positions, repetitions and device height can be noted. Thefunctional reach device permits 10 the incorporation of diagonalreaching at different heights.

In a further reference to FIG. 10, a target 110 is mounted to movelinearly relative to the base member 20 in an accordance with any of theabove examples of the mounting portions 42. In this embodiment, thedevice 10 is adapted with a stop member 112 and a spring 114 that isconnected at each end thereof respectively to the stop member 112 andthe target 110. In this embodiment, the patient 2 will push the target110 against the resistance of the spring 114. Although the base member20 in FIG. 10 is shown as a half portion 21, it can be provided as thefull base member with either one or two targets 110, stops 112 andsprings 114 and/or be also adapted with targets 40.

Now in a reference to FIG. 13, therein is shown an embodiment of atleast a method of assessing or managing a medical condition or animpairment that provides a display 120 for an interactive functionalreach assessment or management of the impairment. The display 120 can bea monitor connected to a computing device 130 with hardware and softwarecomponents associated with computing devices. The computing device 130can be a computer or any other electronic device configured to controloperation of the display 120. Such computing device 130 can be a mobilecomputing device that comprises communication, either wired or wireless,with a remotely disposed display 120.

A mobile computing device may refer to any device having a processingstem and a mobile power source or supply, such as one more batteries,for example. Examples of a mobile computing device may include a laptopcomputer, tablet, touch pad, portable computer, handheld computer,palmtop computer, personal digital assistant (PDA), cellular telephone,combination cellular telephone/PDA, television, smart device (e.g.,smartphone, tablet or smart television), mobile internet device (MID),messaging device, data communication device, and so forth. Examples of amobile computing device also include computers and/or mediacapture/transmission devices configured to be worn by a person, such asa wrist computer, finger computer, ring computer, eyeglass computer,belt-clip computer, arm-band computer, shoe computers, clothingcomputers, and other wearable computers. In various embodiments, forexample, mobile computing device may be implemented as a smart phonecapable of executing computer applications, as well as voicecommunications and/or data communications.

The display 120 can be configured to display images of the abovedescribed markings 60 with the image of the base member 20 and displaythe targets 40 with or without images of the coupling members 41. Inthis example, the assessment or management of a medical condition or animpairment can be carried in accordance with above described methodembodiments, except for replacing the support 70 with the display 120.In an example, the display 120 can be also configured to display imagesof the markings 60 without the outline image of the base member 20. Inan example, the display 120 can be configured as a touch sensitiveportion. In this example, the patient 2 may touch the front 122 of suchdisplay 120 with his/her first and move the fist, in a linear direction,along the surface of the display 120 and/or bend at the waistline whilereaching. When the patient 2 moves his/her fist, the first can maintaina contact with the front 122. The length of the contact and/or a reachangle from the starting position may remain visible on the display 120.A distance and/or angle of the reach can be displayed, in any units oflength, on the display 120, can be displayed remotely at a computingdevice 130 or can be measured based on numerical values provided by theimages of the markings 60. In an example, the display 120, configured asa touch-sensitive display, can be operable to simply dispose the targets40 either at the same or different elevations in the vertical direction.

The display 120 can be mounted onto a vertical surface, for example suchas the wall 4, disposed on a horizontal surface, for example such as atop surface of a desk (not shown) or supported on a support 70′, forexample being the support 70 adapted for attachment to display 120, withor without the clamp member 75 and/or markings 77.

The above described images can be projected from a projector (not shown)onto a vertical disposed surface. Such surface can be the abovedescribed wall 4. Or the display 120 of FIG. 12 can be provided as a(projector) screen.

The patient 2 can be still adapted to wear the harness 90 of FIG. 12.

Now in a reference to FIG. 14, a method of assessing or managing amedical impairment in the patient 2 can comprise the steps of providinga wearable device 140 comprising at least a tilt sensor and a distancemeasurement device; attaching the wearable device 140 to an upper bodyportion of the patient 2; moving the upper body portion through one ormore preselected motions; and measuring at least one of a bend angle ofthe upper body portion and a distance traveled by the wearable deviceduring a movement of the upper body portion through the one or morepreselected motions, where angular and/or linear movement resultscharacterize the medical impairment. In an example, the wearable deviceis a smartwatch 140 worn on a wrist of the patient 2 during the movementof the upper body portion. The smart watch 140 can be of a type asdisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,696,526 A2 issued to Park on Nov. 25, 2014and/or of the type as disclosed in US Pub. No 2015/0238159 A1 publishedto Subramaniam on Aug. 27, 2015 and whose teachings are incorporated intheir entirety by reference. It would be understood, that the smartwatchof Park will be programmed to carry out the above described method. Themethod can comprise a step of displaying angular and/or linear movementresults on a display in the wearable device 140 and/or a step ofcommunicating the angular and/or linear movement results to a remotelocation, for example such as computing device 130 with its own display,and a step of displaying the angular and/or linear movement results on adisplay in the remote location. The step of moving comprises a step ofestablishing a starting position with the wearable device 140.

In an example, the wearable device can be a smart eyewear worn on a headof the patient during the movement of the upper body portion. In anexample, such smart eyewear can be a type as disclosed in US Pat. Pub.No. 2014/029882 A1 published on Oct. 13, 2016 and whose teachings areincorporated in their entirety by reference.

In an embodiment, a method of assessing or managing a medical impairmentin a patient can comprise a step of providing a hand-held distance andangle measuring device. Such hand-held distance and angle measuringdevice can be of the type as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 9,753,135 B2issued to Bösch on Sep. 5, 2017 and whose teachings are incorporated intheir entirety by reference. Then, holding the device by a hand of thepatient during an assessment or a management of the medical impairment.Next, moving the hand through one or more preselected motions. Andmeasuring at least one of a travel angle of the device and/or a distancetraveled by the device during a movement of the hand through the one ormore preselected motions.

In an embodiment, a functional reach assessment device comprises anelongated base member; markings disposed on one surface of the elongatedbase member; and targets mounted on the elongated base member for areciprocal linear movement along a length of the elongated base member.

In an embodiment, the device 10 is a free standing and does not dependupon a wall for support, it is portable and adaptable to various testingand treatment environments.

In an embodiment a method of assessing or managing a medical conditionin a patient comprises a rotational component where the patient reachesacross the body and a bending component where the patient leans forwardor backward while reaching. The rotational and bending components can becombined.

In an embodiment, the presented device allows a medical practitioner anefficient approach to accurately assess lumbar motion and deliver achallenging treatment regimen.

The incorporation of a target or targets at various heights and distancerequires the patient to maintain standing or seated (if performed in asitting position) balance while using visual tracking to reach or lungetoward the targets while being instructed by a medical professional.

In an embodiment, a method of assessing or managing a medical conditionor an impairment in a patient is performed while feet of the patientremain in a stationary position.

In an embodiment, a device that enables or assists in an assessment or amanagement of a medical condition or impairment in a patient comprisesan elongated base member comprising a pair of surface spaced apart fromeach other to define a thickness of the elongated base member; markingsdisposed on one surface from the pair of surfaces of the elongated basemember along a length of the elongated base member; targets disposed,during use of the device, below a bottom edge of the elongated basemember; and coupling members, each coupling member couples a respectivetarget from the targets to the elongated base member for a reciprocallinear movement along the length of the elongated base member.

A feature of this embodiment is that each coupling member comprises amounting member configured to cage a portion of the elongated basemember; and a member that connects the respective target to the mountingmember.

A feature of this embodiment is that the elongated base member comprisesa pair of members and wherein the device comprises a hinge coupling thepair of half members therebetween.

A feature of this embodiment is that the device can further comprise ameans for supporting the elongated base member at an elevation above asurface that a patient stands or sits on during the use of the device.

A feature of this embodiment is that the means comprises a supportmember that is disposed vertically.

A feature of this embodiment is that the support member comprisesadjustable portions.

A feature of this embodiment is that the device can further comprise abase so that the support member is mounted in a free-standing manner,the elongated base member being stationary mounted at a top free end ofthe support member.

A feature of this embodiment is that the base comprises a tri-pod.

A feature of this embodiment is that the support member comprises arail, the elongated base member being mounted, in a generally horizontaldirection, on the rail for a reciprocal linear movement along the railin a vertical direction.

A feature of this embodiment is that the means comprises one or moreapertures through the thickness of the elongated base member and one ormore fasteners passed through the one or more apertures to engage astructure.

A feature of this embodiment is that the means comprises one or morefasteners on another surface from the pair of surfaces of the elongatedbase member being opposite to the one surface.

A feature of this embodiment is that the means comprises a pivot betweenone end of the elongated base member and a structure so that theelongated base member pivots in a generally horizontal plane.

A feature of this embodiment is that the base member is configured as apair of half portions and wherein the means comprises a scissormechanism that comprises portions thereof being rigidly secured to eachof the pair of half portions, the pair of half members being configuredto move between an operable first position where the base member isdisposed generally horizontally and a folding second position where thehalf portions are either disposed generally parallel to the verticalsupport member or at some incline thereto the vertical support memberand can be maintained in an intermediate position anywhere between thefirst and second positions.

A feature of this embodiment is that device further comprises a harnessworn by the patient during use of the device, the harness having aconnection with a resistance inducing member.

A feature of this embodiment is that device further comprises a harnessworn by the patient during use of the device, the harness being held bya medical practitioner during use of the device.

In an embodiment, a device that enables or assists in an assessment or amanagement of a medical condition or impairment in a patient comprises asupport member disposed vertically during use of the device; anelongated base member comprising a pair of surface spaced apart fromeach other to define a thickness of the elongated base member, theelongated base member being mounted in a generally horizontal directionat or adjacent a top end of the support member; markings disposed on onesurface from the pair of surfaces of the elongated base member along alength of the elongated base member; targets disposed, during use of thedevice, below a bottom edge of the elongated base member; and couplingmembers, each coupling member couples a respective target from thetargets to the elongated base member for a reciprocal linear movementalong the length of the elongated base member.

In an embodiment, a device that enables or assists in an assessment or amanagement of a medical condition or impairment in a patient comprises abase member; a support member that couples to the base member and thatsupports the base member above a surface that a patient stands or sitson during the use of the device; and an array of targets suspended fromthe base member, some targets from the array of targets are beingdisposed at different elevations relative to remaining targets from thearray of targets.

A feature of this embodiment is that targets in the array of targets areprovided in a plurality of colors.

A feature of this embodiment is that each target in the array of targetscomprises a circuit and a light emitting member responsive to actuationof the circuit by a motion of the target or by a patient touch to emitlight.

A feature of this embodiment is that each target in the array of targetscomprises a circuit and a sound emitting member responsive to actuationof the circuit by a motion of the target or by a patient touch to emitsound.

In an embodiment, a method of assessing or managing a medical conditionor an impairment in a patient comprises the steps of providing a devicecomprising an elongated base member, markings disposed on one surface ofthe elongated base member along a length of the elongated base member,targets disposed, during use of the device, below a bottom edge of theelongated base member, and coupling members, each coupling membercouples a respective target from the targets to the elongated basemember for a reciprocal linear movement along the length of theelongated base member; positioning the device adjacent a patient orpositioning the patient adjacent the device; reaching, by the patienthaving his/her arm extended, from a starting position in a directionalong the elongated base member toward one or more targets; andmeasuring, with the markings, a distance traveled by the arm of thepatient along the length of the elongated base member.

A feature of this embodiment is that the step of reaching comprises astep of extending, by the patient, his/her arm in a direction beinggenerally parallel with the elongated base member.

A feature of this embodiment is that method further comprises a step offitting the patient with a harness and a step of supporting, with theharness, the patient reaching the one or more targets.

A feature of this embodiment is that method further comprises a step offitting the patient with a harness and a step of connecting the harnessto a resistance inducing and resilient member.

A method of assessing or managing a medical condition or an impairmentin a patient comprises the steps of positioning targets in atwo-dimensional array and at different elevations from each other and ina relationship to a shoulder height of the patient; reaching, by thepatient having his/her arm extended, from a starting position toward oneor more targets; and assessing at least one of a distance and an angletraveled by the arm of the patient from the starting position based onspecific target(s) reached by the patient.

In an embodiment, a method of a non-surgical management of a low backimpairment in a patient comprises the steps of providing a devicecomprising a support member, a base member mounted on the supportmember, and a two-dimensional array of targets suspended by couplingmembers from the base member, some targets from the two-dimensionalarray of targets are being disposed at different elevations relative toremaining targets from the two-dimensional array of targets; positioningthe device in front of the patient or positioning the patient in frontof the device; reaching, by the patient having his/her arm extended, ina direction of a target or targets in the array of targets; observing,by a medical practitioner, the target or targets reached or not reachedby the patient; determining, by the medical practitioner, a degree ofthe low back impairment based on position of the target or targetsreached or not reached by the patient; and prescribing, by the medicalpractitioner, based on the degree of the low back impairment, anexercise and/or therapy regimen promulgating improvement in the low backimpairment.

A feature of this embodiment is that the step of reaching the one ormore targets comprises pivoting a torso relative to a trunk.

A feature of this embodiment is that the step of reaching the one ormore targets comprises reaching across an upper body.

A feature of this embodiment is that the step of reaching the one ormore or targets comprises leaning forward or to one or both sides whilereaching across an upper body.

A feature of this embodiment is that the method further comprises a stepof audibly annunciating a condition where the patient reached the one ormore targets.

A feature of this embodiment is that the method further comprises a stepof visually annunciating a condition where the patient reached the oneor more targets.

A feature of this embodiment is that the step of visually annunciatingthe condition where the patient reached the one or more targetscomprises a step of providing the targets in a plurality of colors.

A feature of this embodiment is that the step of reaching the one ormore or targets comprises a step of not moving feet.

A feature of this embodiment is that the step of determining the degreeof the low back impairment comprises a step of determining a range oftargets reached by the patient in a three-dimensional space.

In an embodiment, a functional reach assessment device, comprises anelongated base member comprising a pair of surface spaced apart fromeach other to define a thickness of the elongated base member; markingsdisposed on one surface from the pair of surfaces of the elongated basemember along a length of the elongated base member; targets disposed,during use of the device, below a bottom edge of the elongated basemember; and coupling members, each coupling member couples a respectivetarget from the targets to the elongated base member for a reciprocallinear movement along the length of the elongated base member.

In an embodiment, a method of assessing or managing a medical impairmentin a patient comprising the steps of providing a wearable devicecomprising at least a tilt sensor and a distance measurement device;attaching the wearable device to an upper body portion of a patient;moving the upper body portion through one or more preselected motions;and measuring at least one of a bend angle of the upper body portion anda distance traveled by the wearable device during a movement of theupper body portion through the one or more preselected motions, whereangular and/or linear movement results characterize the medicalimpairment.

A feature of this embodiment is that the wearable device is a smartwatchworn on a wrist of the patient during the movement of the upper bodyportion.

A feature of this embodiment is that the wearable device is glasses wornon a head of the patient during the movement of the upper body portion.

A feature of this embodiment is that the method further comprises a stepof displaying angular and/or linear movement results on a display in thewearable device.

A feature of this embodiment is that the method further comprises a stepof communicating the angular and/or linear movement results to a remotelocation and a step of displaying the angular and/or linear movementresults on a display in the remote location.

A feature of this embodiment is that the step of moving comprises a stepof establishing a starting position with the wearable device.

In an embodiment, a method of assessing or managing a medical conditionor an impairment in a patient comprises the steps of providing ahand-held distance and/or angle measuring device; holding the hand-helddistance and/or angle measuring device by a hand of the patient duringan assessment or a management of the medical impairment; moving the handthrough one or more preselected motions; and measuring at least one of atravel angle of the hand-held distance and/or angle measuring device anda distance traveled by the hand-held distance and/or angle measuringdevice during a movement of the hand through the one or more preselectedmotions.

In an embodiment, a method of assessing or managing a medical conditionor an impairment in a patient comprises the steps of providing adisplay; displaying a set of markings on the display; positioning afirst of an extended arm of a patient at a preselected starting positionrelative to the set of markings; reaching, with the extended arm from,the starting position in a direction of one or more selected markings;and measuring a distance traveled by the extended arm.

A feature of this embodiment is that the step of reaching comprises astep of bending an upper body in a relationship to a waist of thepatient.

A feature of this embodiment is that the step of reaching comprises astep of reaching with the extended arm across an upper body of thepatient.

The chosen exemplary embodiments have been described and illustrated, toplan and/or cross section illustrations that are schematic illustrationsof idealized embodiments, for practical purposes so as to enable anyperson skilled in the art to which it pertains to make and use the same.As such, variations from the shapes of the illustrations as a result,for example, of manufacturing techniques and/or tolerances, are to beexpected. It is therefore intended that all matters in the foregoingdescription and shown in the accompanying drawings be interpreted asillustrative and not in a limiting sense. For example, a regionillustrated or described as flat may, typically, have rough and/ornonlinear features. Moreover, sharp angles that are illustrated may berounded. Thus, the regions illustrated in the figures are schematic innature and their shapes are not intended to illustrate the precise shapeof a region and are not intended to limit the scope. It will beunderstood that variations, modifications, equivalents and substitutionsfor components of the specifically described exemplary embodiments ofthe invention may be made by those skilled in the art without departingfrom the spirit and scope of the invention.

Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientificterms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by oneof ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. It willbe further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly useddictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that isconsistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and thepresent disclosure, and will not be interpreted in an idealized oroverly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

To the extent that the appended claims have been drafted withoutmultiple dependencies, it should be noted that all possible combinationsof features which would be implied by rendering the claims multiplydependent are explicitly envisaged and should be considered part of theinvention.

Anywhere the term “comprising” is used, embodiments and components“consisting essentially of” and “consisting of” are expressly disclosedand described herein.

Furthermore, the Abstract is not intended to be limiting as to the scopeof the claimed subject matter and is for the purpose of quicklydetermining the nature of the claimed subject matter.

What is claimed is:
 1. A device that enables an assessment or amanagement of a medical condition an impairment in a patient,comprising: an elongated base member comprising a pair of surface spacedapart from each other to define a thickness of said elongated basemember; markings disposed on one surface from said pair of surfaces ofsaid elongated base member along a length of said elongated base member;targets disposed, during use of said device, below a bottom edge of saidelongated base member; and coupling members, each coupling membercouples a respective target from said targets to said elongated basemember for a reciprocal linear movement along said length of saidelongated base member.
 2. The device of claim 1, wherein said eachcoupling member comprises: a mounting member configured to cage aportion of said elongated base member; and a member that connects saidrespective target to said mounting member.
 3. The device of claim 1,wherein said elongated base member comprises a pair of members andwherein said device comprises a hinge coupling said pair of half memberstherebetween.
 4. The device of claim 1, further comprising a means forsupporting said elongated base member at an elevation above a surfacethat a patient stands or sits on during said use of said device.
 5. Thedevice of claim 4, wherein said means comprises a support member that isdisposed vertically.
 6. The device of claim 5, wherein said supportmember comprises adjustable portions.
 7. The device of claim 5, furthercomprising a base so that said support member is mounted in afree-standing manner, said elongated base member being stationarymounted at a top free end of said support member.
 8. The device of claim7, wherein said base comprises a tri-pod.
 9. The device of claim 5,wherein said support member comprises a rail, said elongated base memberbeing mounted, in a generally horizontal direction, on said rail for areciprocal linear movement along said rail in a vertical direction. 10.The device of claim 4, wherein said base member is configured as a pairof half portions and wherein said means comprises a scissor mechanismthat comprises portions thereof being rigidly secured to each of thepair of half portions, said pair of half members being configured tomove between an operable first position where the base member isdisposed generally horizontally and a folding second position where thehalf portions are either disposed generally parallel to said verticalsupport member or at some incline thereto the vertical support memberand can be maintained in an intermediate position anywhere between saidfirst and second positions.
 11. The device of claim 1, furthercomprising a harness worn by the patient during use of said device, saidharness having a connection with a resistance inducing member.
 12. Thedevice of claim 1, further comprising a harness worn by the patientduring use of said device, said harness being held by a medicalpractitioner during use of said device.
 13. A device that enables anassessment or a management of a medical condition or an impairment in apatient, comprising: a support member disposed vertically during use ofsaid device; an elongated base member comprising a pair of surfacespaced apart from each other to define a thickness of said elongatedbase member, said elongated base member being mounted in a generallyhorizontal direction at or adjacent a top end of said support member;markings disposed on one surface from said pair of surfaces of saidelongated base member along a length of said elongated base member;targets disposed, during use of said device, below a bottom edge of saidelongated base member; and coupling members, each coupling membercouples a respective target from said targets to said elongated basemember for a reciprocal linear movement along said length of saidelongated base member.
 14. A device that enables an assessment or amanagement of a medical condition an impairment in a patient,comprising: a base member; a support member that couples to said basemember and that supports said base member above a surface that a patientstands or sits on during said use of said device; and an array oftargets suspended from said base member, some targets from said array oftargets are being disposed at different elevations relative to remainingtargets from said array of targets.
 15. The device of claim 14, whereintargets in said array of targets are provided in a plurality of colors.16. The device of claim 14, wherein each target in said array of targetscomprises a circuit and a light emitting member responsive to actuationof said circuit by a motion of said target or by a patient touch to emitlight.
 17. The device of claim 14, wherein each target in said array oftargets comprises a circuit and a sound emitting member responsive toactuation of said circuit by a motion of said target or by a patienttouch to emit sound.
 18. The device of claim 14, wherein said array oftargets defines a three-dimensional array.